What Causes Quartz Countertops to Look Worn?
There are a few key factors that can cause quartz countertops to lose their original polished finish:
- Day-to-day wear and tear: Things like spills, cleaning, prep work, and placing hot items on the countertop can slowly erode the surface over time.
- Etching: Acidic foods and cleaners can eat away at the shine of quartz and leave etched marks. Citrus, vinegar, wine and some chemical cleaners have acidic properties.
- Chips and scratches: Dropped objects, abrasive cleaners, and cutting directly on the countertop can scratch or chip the surface.
- Sun exposure: Long-term sunlight exposure can cause fading and discoloration.
- Loss of sealant: Countertops are sometimes sealed during installation. This sealant can wear off after several years.
Proper Cleaning and Care Between Polishing
While quartz is durable, proper care is important to maximize time between polishing:
- Use mild soap and water for daily cleaning. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Rinse spills, especially acidic substances like lemon juice, immediately.
- Use cutting boards instead of cutting directly on the quartz.
- Apply a quartz-safe sealant every 1-2 years.
- Avoid exposing the countertops to direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
- Inspect countertops periodically for etching or damage in need of repair.
How To Repolish Quartz Countertops
Repolishing quartz requires using a series of diamond polishing pads, starting with coarser grits and gradually working up to finer polishing grits to restore the shine. Here are the basic steps:
Supplies Needed
- Diamond polishing pads in 50, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1500 grit
- Variable speed polisher or grinder
- Spray bottle with water
- Clean cloths
Step 1: Clean the Countertop
Thoroughly clean the countertop with a non-abrasive quartz cleaner. This provides a clean slate for the polishing.
Step 2: Use Coarser Grits First
Start with a 50 or 100 grit diamond polishing pad. Working in a small section, apply light pressure and move the polisher in a circular motion. Spray the quartz with water to keep it cool.
Step 3: Step Up through Finer Grits
Once you have polished a section with the coarser grit, switch to the next finer grit pad, usually 200 or 400 grit. Continue stepping up through the 800, 1500 grit pads, repeating the polishing process on each section of the countertop before moving onto the next grit.
Step 4: Buff to a Streak-Free Shine
Use a soft, dry cloth to buff the entire surface once the polishing is complete. This removes any leftover haze and brings the quartz back to a clear, glass-like shine.
Step 5: Reseal the Surface
Apply a thin coat of quartz-safe sealant to protect the freshly polished surface. Allow to fully cure per manufacturer instructions.
Professional Repolishing Services
While DIY refinishing is possible, it takes skill and experience to achieve professional-grade results. Hiring a trained quartz fabrication and restoration company is recommended in most cases. They have specialized tools and expertise that allows them to efficiently restore the like-new luster and appearance of worn quartz. The cost is usually comparable to total replacement.
How Often Does Quartz Need Polishing?
With proper daily maintenance, quartz typically only needs polishing every 5-15 years. High-traffic areas like kitchen counters may need it more frequently. The schedule depends on:
- How heavily the counters are used
- Quality of original installation
- How well the counters are maintained
- Exposure to direct sunlight
Signs It’s Time to Repolish
Here are signs that indicate quartz could benefit from professional restoration:
- Dull, worn areas lacking shine
- Light scratches and scuff marks
- Visible etching from acidic liquids
- Discoloration or fading from sun exposure
- Spots or stains that don’t clean off
- Overall lackluster appearance compared to new installation
Quartz Countertop Polishing FAQs
Does polishing quartz damage the surface?
Polishing should not damage a quartz countertop if done properly using diamond polishing pads in graduated grits and the proper techniques. Avoid excessive pressure and heat buildup.
Can I use a polishing compound or wax?
Polishing compounds and waxes contain abrasives that can lead to hazing, dullness, and damage on quartz. Diamond polishing pads designed for engineered stone are recommended.
How long does it take to polish a countertop?
An experienced professional can usually refinish a standard sized kitchen countertop within a few hours. DIY polishing will require more time and patience.
Should I remove or mask off items on the countertop?
Yes, removing everything from the countertop first is best. Use painters tape and plastic sheeting to mask off edges and adjacent surfaces.
Will polishing restore severe etching or damage?
Deep scratches, chips, or deteriorated surfaces may require a quartz repair kit or professional spot repair prior to polishing. Not all damage can be fully removed by polishing alone.
Conclusion
While durable, quartz countertops can lose their polish and develop a worn, weathered look over many years of use. Instead of costly replacement, quartz can be refinished and restored to like-new condition. Hiring professional quartz polishing services is recommended for the best results. With proper maintenance and care, quartz countertops can maintain their beauty and function for decades before needing to be repolished. Regular polishing can save thousands compared to replacement costs.